Keesha's House

A parent might reach for this book when their teenager is struggling to find a sense of belonging or is beginning to realize that 'family' can be a choice rather than just a biological fact. It is a profound resource for young people navigating complex home lives, whether they are facing conflict, displacement, or simply the feeling of being an outsider in their own skin. The story follows seven teenagers, each dealing with heavy realities like pregnancy, abuse, or questioning their identity, who eventually find refuge in Joe's house. Through these interconnected poems, the book explores how community can be built from shared struggle and how resilience grows when we are finally seen and heard. This verse novel is best suited for older teens due to its mature themes, offering a realistic yet ultimately hopeful perspective on making one's own way in the world.